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Search and rescue helicopters that were due to be re-located to Manston Airport could now be housed at Lydd Airport. The aircraft, which are used for rescue operations along the coast, currently operate out of RAF Wattisham in Suffolk. They were due to move to Manston this summer but the airport there has now closed. ITV News Meridian understands that negotiations are now underway to bring the aircraft to Lydd. Tom Savvides talks to parliamentary candidate Lynn Beaumont and the leader of Shepway Council, David Monk.

Philip Hammond unveils the new Mark 6 helicopters, which were ordered in 2011 Credit: Ministry of Defence

The first of the RAFs 14 new Chinook helicopters were unveiled in Hampshire today.

The Defence Secretary revealed the Mark 6 helicopter as part of a £1 billion scheme to improve capabilities for pilots and crew.

Three of the new aircraft have been delivered to the RAF who has started training in the UK Credit: Ministry of Defence

During his visit to RAF Odiham in Hampshire, Philip Hammond also announced a £115 million agreement with Boeing Defence UK to maintain engines of the RAF's increased fleet of 60 Chinooks.

This will replace five existing contracts with one - saving the taxpayer £20 million.

The Defence Secretary and the Chief of the Air Staff, who is a Chinook pilot, were then given a tour of the brand new aircraft.

All 14 new aircraft will be delivered to the MoD before the end of 2015 Credit: Ministry of Defence

Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said:

“These state of the art aircraft will provide a significant uplift in helicopter capability operating as the battlefield workhorse of the RAF, supporting the Army on the frontline for decades to come. The 14 new Chinooks will boost our fleet to 60, already the largest in Europe.

An Indian restaurant on the Isle of Grain has been asked to send takeaway to the UN troops in the Democratic Republic of Congo. David Johns reports, talking to chef Abul Monsur and co-pilot Mustapha Azim.

A Dorset MP has written to the Transport Minister saying he will continue to fight to save the Portland Search and Rescue helicopter. Under a government review of coastguard operations, the service would be axed by 2017. Richard Drax says the Portland base offers good value for money.